'He has that capability' - Wigan Warriors duo praised after impressive outings as combinations build
Wigan Warriors boss Matt Peet shared praise for Patrick Mago and Zach Eckersley following their impressive performances in Super League’s opening round.
Powerhouse prop Mago and speedster winger Eckersley were on song to help Wigan open their Super League campaign with a 26-16 win over Castleford Tigers at the OneBore Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Mago’s impact from the bench was evident, with the Samoan front-rower registering five tackle busts from 11 carries to go alongside 118 metres made, while producing two crucial offloads that helped his side get on the front foot.
"He has that capability,” said Peet. “He worked hard in the pre-season, has been training well, is very determined, and he has done it often for us. His teammates love him. There is so much to his game, so I was pleased for him – he deserves it.”
Meanwhile, Eckersley bagged two tries in the second half to help the Warriors take the spoils in West Yorkshire. The 22-year-old also racked up 125 metres from 15 carries.
"I just think Zach wants to play his best,” said Peet. “He works hard on his game, you see it with young players developing all the time, it’s one of the best things to see in Super League when young players are improving and developing.
"It won’t be plain sailing for him – like it is for any player – but we’re here to support him. At the moment, he is playing really well.”
The growing combination between Eckersley and Bevan French was also clear to see in Castleford, with the pair linking up nicely, including when Eckersley broke down the right wing to assist French for his try in the first half.
"There are all sorts of mini combos across the field in any team, and that was one that showed up on the weekend,” Peet added.
"There is no reason why that shouldn’t be happening across the field for us. I think we’ve got some skill and pace on the edges, so the more time we spend on the training field together, it should translate into some decent play. I think across the competition at the weekend, you saw some really exciting edge play."